Do You Need New Double Glazed Windows?

Combatting Condensation and Damp over the Winter Months

During the winter months, it is much more common to experience problems with damp and condensation in the home. Damp in the home can potentially cause a lot of problems, resulting in the need for new double glazed windows or what could be very expensive other home improvements.

So what is condensation? – Condensation is caused when moist air hits a cold surface, so there is no surprise that problems with damp most commonly occur during the cold, wet days of winter.

It most often condenses on surfaces such as walls (particularly outer walls), kitchen and bathroom tiles and windows. It is also worth looking for a build-up of condensation in areas of the home where there is little air movement, for example, behind wardrobes or inside cupboards, as well as around the ceiling. Condensation can be seen as droplets of water around a room.

Why is condensation a problem? – Condensation commonly leads to the growth of mould on walls and ceilings, as well as leading to damp patches. Mould, if left untreated by fungicidal spray, can lead to damages to the home that could be expensive to correct. Most importantly, allowing mould to build in the home is also unhealthy and can lead to increased eye, nose and throat problems, allergic reactions, as well as coughing and phlegm build up, shortness of breath and symptoms of asthma.

How can you combat condensation in your home?

Keep your home warm – The best way to avoid the build-up of condensation in your home is to maintain an even, low temperature in your home for long periods of time. Rather than blasting the heating for 2 or 3 hours a day, which can make condensation worse, keeping the temperature of your home consistent helps to prevent it.

Let the air circulate – Ventilation is important to ensure the air in your house circulates. However, too much ventilation can bring cold air into your home, and lead to condensation as it meets with the warm air of your central heating.

Try to reduce moisture in your home – When you dry your washing, if possible, avoid hanging it on or in front of radiators, and if you use a tumble drier, ensure that it is vented correctly. When cooking on the hobs, you can also look to cook with lids on pans, particularly if water or other liquids are boiling.

Are there other causes of damp and mould growth in the home besides condensation? – In addition to condensation, damp can also be caused by a number of other problems:

Faulty rendering, brickwork or damp-proof course

Leaking roofs and guttering

Leaking pipes

Faulty building work and damaged roofs are commonly the causes of rising and penetrating damp. If you do find damp in your home, it is important that you employ a professional building and home improvements expert to find the source of the problem. It may be a simple fix, or a number of home improvements may be needed, particularly if damp is due to a leaking roof or faulty brickwork.

If you want a home extension or your conservatory has condensation there is more information here about the average cost of a new or refurbishes conservatory.